Flu Season Started in October; shots are free
PORT MARIA, St Mary; Oct. 23, 2026
Residents of St. Mary are being reminded that flu shots are available, free of cost, to help safeguard their health and well-being.
The reminder came from health officials at a meeting of the St. Mary Municipal Corporation’s Health and Sanitation Committee, on Tuesday, October 20, in Port Maria. October marks the start of the flu season, and health officials explained that the vaccine is available to those who wish to be immunised.
(Deputy Chief Public Health Inspector for St. Mary, Samantha-Gaye Anderson Ashley.)
Deputy Chief Public Health Inspector for St. Mary, Samantha-Gaye Anderson Ashley, said that flu shots are available at the Port Maria Health Centre and should soon be available at the various health centres across the parish.
“Individuals can reach out to the respective health centres, just for additional information, in terms of the days that are best for them to come and get the shots administered,” she added.
According to JIS News, Mrs. Anderson-Ashley stated, however, that individuals wishing to receive a flu shot should not be experiencing the flu or any other illness that may leave them medically unwell and unable to tolerate the vaccination.
The flu is an acute viral infection that spreads easily from person to person, primarily through coughing, sneezing and close contact with infected individuals.
The vaccine is provided free of charge, with priority given to high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, children and older adults with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, individuals who are institutionalised or in State care, and non-health front-line workers.
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